River City Band
Versatile band spans many genres & styles
River City Band
For over 15 years, the River City Band has entertained appreciative audiences at venues and events throughout the Northwest. Comprised of five veteran musicians who all sing and play a variety of instruments, this versatile group fits in at nearly any occasion. While billed as a "rock and soul band," their wide-ranging set list actually spans many genres and styles.
Truly a team-oriented bunch, River City Band features Mike Clark and Jerry Hatcher as the main guitar slingers; Byron Searls and Bill "Bongo" Schlansky driving the rhythm section; with journeyman Dave Capron adding flourishes on harmonica, keyboards, sax, flute and added percussion.
Every player in this crack outfit takes a turn at lead vocals, with layers of backup harmonies abounding. Throughout the course of a typical performance, the players switch roles and instruments to add to the fun. Each member boasts impressive professional musical credentials and experience, traveling throughout the country and playing with other top notch players and bands over the course of their careers. Their experience shows as they collectively exude a comfortable confidence earned from years of playing.
The group's schedule finds them playing at nightclubs, special events and concerts. Their goal is to "get you out on the dance floor and have everyone dancing and singing along."
A recent appearance at Pizza Mia Ristorante e' Sports Bar, located at 915 N. Anchor Way, just off of Marine Drive, showed why this band gets so many gigs. This interesting venue, which features imaginative Italian cuisine in a family-friendly environment, presented the band at its best. As the mixed crowd savored the bistro's inventive combination pizzas and other Italian-style entrees, the group started out with a jazzy dinner set that perfectly matched the scene.
Later in the evening, the pace stepped up a notch to encourage the crowd to burn off those accumulated calories on the makeshift dance floor. Late night happy hour specials brought the evening to a happy conclusion, aided by the perfect soundtrack provided by the River City Band collective. Break time conversations with this ultra-friendly and professional crew showed that they were having as much fun as everyone else.
Pizza Mia's unique atmosphere and design certainly add to the enjoyment of live music there. Open architecture, European sports decor and artistic trim hark back to similar caf&3233s found along the Mediterranean Sea. Well-prepared and presented dishes, an eclectic wine list and friendly service make this a great place to dine, catch a game on one of the many TV monitors lining the perimeter and enjoy live entertainment.
The River City Band has an interesting schedule of shows already lined up for the months ahead. To find out more about this exciting act, check out their web site: www.rivercityband.net, as well as the Bandstand listings and ad in Positively Entertainment and Dining.